Raging bully? Focus on harassment case

MIAMI — The NFL Players Association said it will insist on a fair investigation for all involved in the Miami Dolphins harassment case, including suspended guard Richie Incognito.

FILE - In this May 29, 2013 file photo, Miami Dolphins guard Richie Incognito watches during an NFL football practice at the Dolphins training facility in Davie, Fla. Suspended Dolphins guard Incognito sent text messages to teammate Jonathan Martin that were racist and threatening, two people familiar with the situation said Monday, Nov. 4, 2013. The people spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the Dolphins and NFL haven't disclosed the nature of the misconduct that led to Incognito's suspension. (AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee, File)

The league is investigating the relationship Incognito had with teammate Jonathan Martin, who left the team last week because of emotional issues. Incognito was suspended indefinitely by coach Joe Philbin for his treatment of Martin.

“As the representative organization of all players, the NFLPA will insist on a fair investigation for all involved,” the union said in a statement Tuesday that included no condemnation of Incognito’s conduct.

Instead, the union said accountability rested with the Dolphins.

“We expect that the NFL and its clubs create a safe and professional workplace for all players, and that owners, executives, coaches and players should set the best standards and examples,” the union said.

Incognito, speaking publicly for the first time since his suspension Sunday, was interviewed briefly by a reporter for WSVN-TV.

“I’m just trying to weather the storm right now,” Incognito said before getting into his car. “This will pass.”

Dolphins officials didn’t respond to requests for comment. The team practiced Tuesday, but had no media availability.

Incognito’s harassment of Martin included text messages that were racist and threatening, two people familiar with the situation have said. The 6-foot-5, 312-pound Martin, a second-year pro, is biracial. Incognito, a guard in his ninth NFL season, is white.

An associate professor at the University of Miami School of Law said the 30-year-old Incognito could face criminal charges.

“This can be pursued as an extortion case,” Tamara Lave said. “It could also be pursued as making some kind of threat against the other player’s life. ... This particular cultural moment is one in which people are very upset about bullying and hazing. ... I think that prosecutors may think it’s important for them to do something.”